Abstract [en]

Background: Sexually assaulted women's physical and mental health is affected both in short and long term after the assault. Some of the reported problems are infertility, injuries in the genital area, and feelings of vulnerability, helplessness, shame and guilt. It has been shown that only a small proportion of sexually assaulted women seek care immediately after the rape. Aim: The aim of this study was to describe sexually assaulted women's experiences of the assault itself, the healing process and the health care. Method: This general descriptive literature review was based on nine qualitative articles, which dealt with sexually assaulted women's experiences. Results: This literature review showed that women felt to be emotionally fragile after a sexual assault, and the healing process included a search for understanding of the assault. Furthermore, it was important that the women received support and confirmation that they were not to blame for the assault. This study also found that restraint in the help-seeking could be due to feelings of shame, mistrust to the health care and inadequate access to services. Conclusion: Sexually assaulted women's life is affected in long-term because of the assault and they often experience a lack of support from others, especially the health care. Therefore the authors of this review suggest the following nursing interventions to improve the care of sexually assaulted women: Private conversation, Group discussions and Information and education to families.